Pets in Cartagena

Good to Know

• Cartagena itself does not have a separate pet-entry process from the rest of Colombia — all requirements are set nationally by ICA and apply the same whether you land in Cartagena, Bogotá, or Medellín.
• Start paperwork 8-10 weeks before travel: rabies vaccination needs a 21-day buffer, the health certificate must be dated within 10 days of the flight, and ICA/SISPAP registration should be submitted a few weeks ahead.
• A microchip isn't mandatory for entry, but get one anyway — it's the standard for onward travel and makes finding a lost pet in an unfamiliar city far easier.
• If you own a Pit Bull, American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, or a cross of these breeds, they are barred from entering Colombia entirely — plan accordingly before booking travel.
• Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants exist in Cartagena's main tourist areas (Bocagrande, Getsemaní, the Walled City) but policies vary by property — always confirm size limits and fees directly before booking rather than assuming blanket acceptance.
• Airlines set their own pet policies (cabin weight limits, carrier requirements) independent of Colombia's entry rules, so check with your specific carrier in addition to meeting ICA requirements.
• Home-visit vet services (vaccines, basic treatment) are common in Cartagena and are often cheaper and easier than transporting a pet across the city in heat/traffic — worth asking any clinic if they offer domicilio visits.
• Always get a direct price quote before treatment — we found very little publicly posted vet pricing for Cartagena specifically, and rates vary a lot by clinic and case.
• Midday heat and humidity are intense; locals mostly walk dogs early morning or evening, and asphalt/sand can burn paw pads by midday.
• A city-run pet park at the Nuevo Chambacú sports complex is a newer (2026) addition reflecting Cartagena's push for more pet-inclusive public space — worth checking current opening hours before visiting since it's a recent launch.
• Some travel guides claim a Cartagena municipal ordinance allows dogs on public buses and in taxis; we could not independently confirm this with an official city source, so don't assume it applies everywhere — ask the driver first.
• If you want a real beach day with your dog beyond Bocagrande, Isla de Barú is the well-known dog-friendly option, but budget for the ~45-minute boat or road transfer.